Marc Cucurella hopes his strong finish to the season with Chelsea can continue as he looks to help Spain to Euro 2024 success.
The Chelsea left-back impressed in an inverted full-back role in the latter parts of the season, getting on the ball regularly as the Blues looked to start attacks down the left flank while moving into a more traditional defensive position when out of possession.
His impressive performances caught the eye and helped Cucurella earn a spot in Spain’s squad for the European Championships in Germany – which got underway last night as the host nations faced Scotland – with Spain opening their campaign against Croatia in Berlin today.
‘Changing my role has been nice,’ our defender explained recently. ‘I try to do whatever I can to help the side and if I play in more positions and it helps the team, I’m happy because I have more possibilities to play.
‘I think first in the first part of the season, I played right back as well and as always, I’ll try to do my best to help the team and to win the game. Whenever I’m on the pitch, I’m happy to help out but for sure I like to play this position [inverted left-back].’
‘I’m confident to go away with the national side. Coming into the tournament, I think I have been playing very well.
‘I think this is my best form since coming to Chelsea. I think last season was a little tough and the start of the season a little bit as well.
‘Then I had the injury and I had to stop playing for a few months. After the injury, I feel very good. I feel I have played at a good level and I’m happy to show the qualities I have because, sometimes it has been difficult.’
The immediate focus for Cucurella lies with La Roja and performing well in Germany but, following that tournament and a deserved break, the former Brighton man will be aiming to hit the ground running with Chelsea ahead of the new season.
With Enzo Maresca arriving as our new head coach, it represents a new journey for the Blues and one Cucurella is delighted to be a part of at a club he loves.
‘I feel very good and I’m excited for the future with Chelsea,’ added Marc. ‘I’m feeling very strong. I’m very happy here and I have a lot of confidence.
‘Playing football is one of the best things I can do in my life. And to play for this club is just amazing!’